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Devolution

What is devolution?

Devolution is the process of transferring control over Nunavut’s public (Crown) lands and resources to the Government of Nunavut. Devolution will allow Nunavummiut to make decisions on how public lands and resources are used and developed. An agreement will be negotiated between the Government of Nunavut, the Government of Canada and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated that sets out the process for this transfer.

Why is devolution important for Nunavut?

Devolution will bring decision-making closer to home, giving Nunavummiut a greater say in issues that affect them. Final decisions over public land and resource use will be made in Nunavut and not in Ottawa. Devolution will enable Nunavummiut to better control the pace of development and maintain Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq, or environmental stewardship.

Is Nunavut ready for devolution?

Yes. Devolution is an important step to continue the process started with the land claims negotiations and settlement. The Government of Nunavut is prepared to negotiate an agreement with Canada and NTI. While negotiating the best deal for Nunavummiut will take some time to complete, Nunavut is ready for the next step in its political development.

What is the role of the Devolution Division?

The nature and complexity of devolution has required an ongoing division dedicated to preparing for, negotiating and implementing a devolution agreement. The division leads and coordinates devolution negotiations with the Government of Canada (GC) and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI). The Division is also charged with implementing the final agreement in the years following the negotiations.

Honourable Paul Quassa

Premier of Nunavut

Premier Paul Quassa was selected by his colleagues in the 5th Legislative Assembly of Nunavut to lead the territory on November 17, 2017. He was sworn-in as Nunavut’s fourth Premier on November 21, 2017.
Premier Quassa was first elected in the general election held on October 28, 2013, to represent the constituency of Aggu. He was elected to serve on the Executive Council during the 4th Legislative Assembly as Minister of Education, Minister Responsible for Nunavut Arctic College and Government House Leader.